BCA Float 42 Airbag Pack

Backcountry Access will release their latest and largest Float airbag pack for the 2014-2015 winter season. This year, I have had the good fortune to be a beta-tester for the pre-production version. The Float 42 is designed specifically for guides and patrollers who need to carry extra gear on a typical day trip. For the recreationalist, it provides an airbag pack with enough volume for overnight trips or for use on glaciated or technical terrain (where they would likely be carrying more gear). The Float 42 uses the same Float compressed gas system as in the Float 32, but in a technical 42-liter pack with more pockets, attachment points, and adjustability. (Note that there will also be a 28-liter version released next year as well.)

The updated design of the Float pack line is a significant improvement over the previous year’s models. The shape of the pack has more natural curvature that hugs your torso on both uphills and downhills. The comfort of the pack has been exceptional at both ends of the spectrum, from fully-loaded to nearly empty. The compression straps are located to reduce any unused space on those lighter gear days and do not interfere with access to the main or snow-tool compartments. The diagonal ski carry is similar to what has been available on previous Float and Stash models – quick, easy, secure, and comfortable. The construction of the pack strikes a good balance between weight savings and durability.

If you haven’t bought an airbag pack yet, you should. If you are caught in an avalanche, you do not want to be buried – and this is the one piece of equipment that has been proven to reduce your odds of burial. Backcountry Access is a leader and an innovator in the airbag market

Of course, nothing can replace education, experience, and good decision making in the backcountry. Everyone should take an AIARE level I Avalanche education course if they are going backcountry riding. Be sure to also check out our guided trips for backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering. Nothing will accelerate your learning curve faster than training from our highly qualified guides. Please contact the Colorado Mountain School at info@totalclimbing.com or 800-836-4008 – you won’t be disappointed.

See you in the backcountry.